Myths About Inpatient Drug Rehab

Top Rehab Myths to Dispel

One of the most helpful tools in achieving sobriety and long-term recovery is being separated from substances, of course. For a lot of people, this means attending and completing a quality, inpatient drug rehab program.

The structure, programs, support, and the separation from substances and alcohol that is found inside inpatient drug rehab can provide the best outcomes for long-term recovery. While these programs can be truly effective, there are considerable barriers that block people from entering drug treatment. One of the main obstacles that can often hold people back from attending inpatient drug rehabs is the myths that surround them.

Myth #1: Rehab is too Expensive

Perhaps the biggest myth that holds people back from going to treatment is the myth that they cannot afford it. With an average cost of about $30,000 for a 28-day treatment program, there is no doubt that inpatient drug rehab can be a major financial commitment.

Despite the price tag, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has made substance abuse treatment an essential service that is covered by many health insurance plans. That being said, most treatment centers will accept a wide range of insurance plans and will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your current health insurance policy.

• For people who do not have health insurance coverage, there are also many state-run facilities that offer free substance abuse treatment. The only tricky thing here is that they are often very full, and can require a wait to receive a bed.
• If you find that you need treatment but don’t have health insurance, many facilities will provide a sliding scale for payment, and some will even provide a scholarship.

Myth #2: Inpatient Drug Rehab is the Only Option Available

Many people assume that inpatient stays are the only options available. It is true that inpatient stays can provide the care and services that can offer the best chance at lasting recovery, but there can also be instances where it may not be the best option for everyone.

• For people who are unable to attend a long-term stay, for example, single parents, or people that cannot receive time off from work, intensive outpatient programs or day programs can be helpful to receive some structure and support.
• These programs feature the same quality treatment services, with access to substance abuse education and therapists, but are more flexible to fit around an individual’s schedule.

Myth #3: “I will have to go Cold Turkey”

A common myth surrounding drug treatment is that addicts will have to go through the withdrawal process cold turkey. No matter what substance you are addicted to, there are physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal that can be uncomfortable and painful.

Despite that, inpatient drug rehabs feature medical detoxification services that will help minimize withdrawal symptoms and make the process more tolerable. These detox programs are held in safe and secure environments and feature around-the-clock supervision.

Medical detox programs feature medication therapy, and nutrition therapy, and may also have other interventions that will help the individual regain their physical and mental health for a smoother transition into intensive drug treatment.

Myth #4: I Haven’t Hit Bottom Yet

A lot of people may say that they aren’t ready to get clean and sober yet, or that they shouldn’t attend intensive drug rehab because they haven’t hit bottom yet. The reality, for addicts and alcoholics, is that the only true bottom in addiction is death, and unfortunately, overdoses and death can occur at any time, even for seasoned vets. One bad batch or one extra hit can do it.

Drug treatment is for anyone who is struggling with substance abuse. Addicts come from all walks of life and from every cultural and socioeconomic background. Because of the increased knowledge of drug and alcohol addiction as being a disease, people are now able to seek treatment BEFORE they have to hit bottom.

People also assume that their bottom has to be complete and utter external chaos, however, many people who are now sober have reported that their last bottom was actually an emotional one.

Myth #5: Inpatient Drug Rehabs will Force God on You

A very common misconception among people who have never tried to get clean and sober before is that all treatment and 12 step programs are going to try to force a Catholic God onto them.

Although spirituality (not religion) is one of the important factors of long-term recovery, the reality is that treatment staff will never force any addict to adopt a particular religious belief in order to get clean and sober.

• Many people among 12-step fellowships have long-term sobriety and remain agnostic, meaning, they do not believe in any sort of God, but more in the belief of something out there.
• Each treatment center chooses its own approach on incorporating the 12 steps or not, and they will usually make it very clear before your arrival if you will be expected to start delving into them before you arrive.
• Some inpatient drug rehabs will use more of a holistic approach rather than a 12 step program.

Myth #6: Inpatient Drug Treatment Won’t Cure Me”

Many people who struggle with addiction may choose to evade treatment because they feel that they cannot be helped. Drug treatment is not meant to CURE anyone because addiction cannot be cured.

However, treatment does provide the tools, encouragement, and support that any addict or alcoholic will need to work on their own individualized plan of recovery once they complete and leave treatment.

The best way to minimize the chance of relapse in your recovery is to make a daily commitment to staying sober by utilizing the tools you were provided in inpatient drug rehab.

Are You or a Loved One Struggling?

Has a loved one recently approached you asking for help with their alcoholism or addiction? If you or someone you love is suffering from alcohol or drug addiction and would like to learn about our top treatment options nationwide Find Addiction Rehabs, call us now. Help is out there and just a phone call away.